Desperate for a date night but not sure what hiring a babysitter should cost you these days? We have the inside scoop on what your neighbors are paying. (Spoiler, it’s a lot.)

Plus, a youth sports program introduced free play into its practices and startling things began to happen. This piece comes from an exceptional parenting expert, Lenore Skenazy. She will be joining us live for our June ParentEd Talks event to teach us how to counteract the urge to overprotect our kids. This helicopter mom will certainly be tuning in. 😅

Peep the sunny (!) five-day forecast and plan your family’s adventure to one of these hidden-gem parks with incredible views. Also, show your charming local book-browsing spot some love on Independent Bookstore Day, April 29.

— Devon Hammer, email editor and PNW mama of three